A natural gas pipeline ruptured in British Columbia today, leaving hundreds of thousands at risk of losing gas service. This is yet another example of the dangers that fossil fuel infrastructure poses. We can simply cannot afford to rely on fossil fuels any longer.

“British Columbians should brace for possible loss of natural gas service and soaring gasoline prices after an Enbridge natural gas line ruptured north of Prince George.

Natural gas supplier FortisBC has asked one million customers to lower their thermostats and limit other gas use as much as possible while the damage is repaired. About 700,000 homes in northern B.C., the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island could temporarily lose gas service altogether.

The pain will extend to the gasoline pumps as well, with prices expected to break $1.60 a litre by Friday and $1.65 by Saturday in Metro Vancouver.

Stephanie Valois of Quesnel is concerned that pipes could freeze and burst if cold sets in before gas service is fully restored, but she’s even more concerned about her neighbours.

“I’m worried for all the people that are going to freeze if gas service stops,” she said. “Not everyone has a fireplace or electric heaters.”’